The SC01’s exterior blends retro charm with modern flair, evoking the wedge-shaped Lancia Stratos while maintaining a sleek, contemporary edge. At 161.7 inches long, 72 inches wide, and 46 inches tall, it’s roughly the size of an Alpine A110 but nearly three inches lower than a Mazda Miata. Its tubular space frame and lightweight materials keep the weight down to 1,365 kg, lighter than most EVs like the Tesla Model 3. Aerodynamic touches include air curtains in the front bumper, a single windshield wiper to reduce drag, and side vents that channel air to cool radiators. The rear features circular taillights and buttresses concealing a vertical window, with mounting points for an optional rear wing. Buyers can personalize it with custom paint colors, adding a bespoke touch to its striking silhouette.
A Cockpit Built for Driving
Inside, the SC01 prioritizes simplicity and driver engagement. Forged carbon fiber racing bucket seats with multi-point harness cutouts set the tone, while a flat-bottomed steering wheel hosts controls for turn signals, wipers, and media. A large LCD instrument cluster behind the wheel displays critical info, but there’s no central infotainment screen, a deliberate choice to keep distractions at bay. HVAC dials sit to the right of the steering wheel, and a narrow center console houses drive selectors, a mechanical handbrake, and power window controls. Overhead, a strip of buttons and dials manages everything from ignition to traction settings, creating a minimalist yet functional cabin that feels like a nod to classic sports cars.
Power and Handling That Punch Above Weight
The SC01’s dual electric motors—one at each axle—deliver 429 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 2.9 seconds. Its all-wheel-drive system can switch to front-wheel drive for varied driving dynamics, and a horizontal pushrod suspension enhances cornering precision. The 60-kWh lithium-ion ternary battery, supplied by CALB and mounted behind the cabin, mimics a mid-engine layout for better weight distribution and a lower driving position. This setup yields a CLTC range of 323 miles, translating to roughly 186 miles in real-world conditions—ample for spirited drives or longer trips. Reviewers note its sharp handling on twisty roads, with responsive steering and brakes that, while initially grabby in pre-production models, have been refined for production.
The Price of Performance
At $31,600 in China, the SC01 undercuts competitors like the Porsche 718 Cayman and even the Mazda Miata, offering performance that rivals pricier EVs. Its closest rival, the MG Cyberster, targets a similar niche but lacks the SC01’s lightweight focus. Production began in April 2025 under JMEV, a subsidiary of Jiangling Motors, after the startup Tianjin Gongjiang Pai Auto Technology secured a sales license. Founder Feng Xiaotong, a car enthusiast known for modifying Porsches and Mitsubishis, opted for a low-key launch via Weibo posts rather than a flashy event, reflecting the car’s no-nonsense ethos. While currently China-only, its specs and price have sparked calls for U.S. and European availability.
Why the SC01 Matters
The SC01 fills a gap in the EV market: an affordable, lightweight sports car built for driving purists. Unlike heavy, high-powered EVs that prioritize straight-line speed, it channels the spirit of classics like the Lotus Elise or Alfa Romeo 4C, proving electric cars can be agile and engaging. Its accessible price makes it a compelling alternative to gas-powered sports cars, though its China-only availability limits its reach for now. For enthusiasts dreaming of an electric Miata or an affordable Tesla Roadster successor, the SC01 is a tantalizing glimpse of what’s possible when weight is the enemy and fun is the goal.
